Adderall Side Effects in Females

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is the brand name for a combination medication that includes amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. It’s used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy by increasing the dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain to improve concentration and reduce impulsivity.

In addition to medical uses, Adderall may be misused as a weight loss drug, a study aid for students, or as a party drug recreationally.

Adderall Side Effects

Like all medications, Adderall has the risk of side effects and adverse effects. Some of the common side effects of Adderall may include:[1]

• Loss of appetite
• Mood changes
• Weight loss
• Stomach pain
• Fast heart rate
• Nervousness
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Sleep problems
• Dry mouth

Though rare, Adderall can cause serious side effects that require medical attention, including:[2]

• Chest pain
• Trouble breathing
• Fainting
• Hallucinations
• Hostility
• Paranoia
• Aggression
• Skin changes
• Seizures
• Vision changes

Adderall can contribute to serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition caused by a high level of serotonin in the body, especially when combined with other serotonergic medications. The symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include agitation, fever, sweating, hallucinations, muscle stiffness, rapid heart rate, loss of coordination, twitching, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.[3]

Adderall Side Effects in Women

The side effects of Adderall can vary, but studies suggest that the drug can cause some symptoms specific to women. One study found that women reported headaches, nausea, dizziness, low appetite, and anxiety on Adderall.[4]

Research also suggests that women have more negative reactions to Adderall than men, which may be due to differences in body fat, weight, or metabolism.[5] More research is needed to understand how Adderall may affect different sexes.

Risks of Adderall in Females

Stimulant medications like Adderall can have significant risks, including misuse, abuse, and addiction. Though rare, stimulants can cause heart attacks, palpitations, and arrhythmias, especially in people who misuse Adderall.

Adderall has specific risks for women, however, including:

• Pregnancy risks: The effects of Adderall on pregnancy and fertility are not well understood, but some studies suggest an increased risk of preeclampsia and preterm delivery for women on Adderall.[6]
• Breastfeeding: While Adderall may be safe when used as prescribed while breastfeeding, the drug can pass to the baby through breast milk.[7] It’s important not to misuse or abuse Adderall while breastfeeding.
• Menstruation: Adderall can have an adverse effect on the menstrual cycle and may have amplified effects during the follicular and luteal phases.[8] More research is needed to understand how Adderall may affect menstruation.
• Sexual effects: Adderall may cause decreased libido and delayed orgasms in women, though it’s generally rare.[9] Reduced libido is a common side effect for both men and women on Adderall.

Adderall Misuse for Weight Loss

One study shows that women are more likely to misuse or abuse stimulant medications for weight loss, including Adderall.[10] This is more common in people who have histories of stress-related eating habits, low self-esteem, prolonged dieting, and overall unhealthy eating habits.

Misusing Adderall for weight loss can significantly increase the risk of dangerous side effects, including developing dependence and addiction.

Why Does Adderall Affect Women Differently?

How Adderall affects women and why the side effects may differ isn’t well understood. The FDA notes that the average body weight among women influences dosage, which changes the bioavailability of the amphetamines in Adderall.

If the doses are not based on body mass, the amount of amphetamines women processed was 20-30% higher.[11] With an adjusted dose, the amount of amphetamine was more consistent and produced similar results across genders. The other amphetamines did not show similar results, however.

Other studies suggest that women’s menstrual cycle, which is influenced by estrogen, can affect how bioavailable Adderall is. During the follicular phase of menstruation – the first 14 days of the menstrual cycle – Adderall may have a bigger impact on the body and more negative side effects. Women expressed stronger cravings, euphoria, and physical dependence on Adderall during this phase, which may be due to the increased levels of estrogen.

Though more research is needed to understand how women process and respond to Adderall, it’s clear that there are differences. This suggests that it may be more dangerous for women to misuse or abuse Adderall, which may lead to more side effects like:

• Changes in bowel movements
• Trouble sleeping
• Increased anxiety
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Decreased libido
• Dry mouth

Drug Alternatives to Adderall

Adderall is a first-line treatment for ADHD and narcolepsy, but it’s not appropriate for everyone. If you want to explore other ADHD treatment options, here are some alternatives to Adderall:[12]

• Strattera (atomoxetine): This drug is a non-stimulant ADHD medication that selectively inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in attention and impulse control. Because it’s not a stimulant, the risk of dependence and addiction is lower.
• Intuniv (guanfacine): Intuniv is another non-stimulant ADHD medication that affects receptors in the brain involved in impulse control. Because this drug has targeted effects, there may be fewer side effects than Adderall.
• Ritalin (methylphenidate): Ritalin is a different stimulant from Adderall that works on norepinephrine and dopamine to reduce hyperactivity and improve attention. Though similar, Ritalin may be better tolerated and may have fewer side effects for some people.
• Provigil (modafinil): Provigil was developed to treat narcolepsy, but it may be used off-label for ADHD to improve cognitive function and focus with a lower risk of dependence and abuse than Adderall. Provigil is still a controlled substance, though with a lower risk of dependence and abuse than Adderall.
• Focalin (dexmethylphenidate): Focalin is a stimulant that works similarly to Adderall, but the active ingredients differ.

Adderall Abuse and Addiction

Adderall is widely prescribed, but it’s also a drug of abuse. If you’ve had problems with substance abuse in the past, you may want to avoid Adderall completely. Chronic misuse or abuse of Adderall can increase the risk of developing an addiction or stimulant use disorder, as well as serious health effects.

Prolonged use of Adderall, even as directed, can cause the body to become dependent. This means your body has become accustomed to the presence of the drug and needs it to function properly. If you stop taking it suddenly, withdrawal symptoms like fatigue, cravings, low mood, increased appetite, nightmares, and irritability may occur.

If you want to stop taking Adderall, it’s important to talk to your doctor about how to do so safely. They may suggest a taper schedule with gradually reduced doses over time to manage withdrawal symptoms.

In the case of long-term abuse and addiction, detox may be the first step in getting help. This environment provides medical monitoring 24/7 to minimize withdrawal symptoms, reduce the risk of complications, and keep you as safe and comfortable as possible.

If you’re struggling with Adderall addiction, detox is only the foundation of recovery. You will need a comprehensive addiction treatment program to address the underlying causes of addiction and learn healthier habits. Treatment often includes a combination of behavioral therapies and traditional treatment options like individual and group counseling as part of an individualized care plan.

Is Adderall Safe for Women?

Yes, Adderall is generally safe for women and may be an effective treatment for ADHD and narcolepsy. However, women need to communicate with their doctor about the risks, any other medications they’re taking, and any medical conditions they have to determine if it’s appropriate for their needs.

If you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult with your doctor about whether Adderall is safe for you and your baby. Depending on the severity of your ADHD or narcolepsy, other drugs may be recommended to reduce the risk of adverse effects.